Windows 11 Start menu Archives

Winsage

April 4, 2025

Windows 11’s Start menu is getting redesigned again — and it’s not bad

Microsoft is preparing a significant redesign of the Windows 11 Start menu, featuring a new, larger layout that allows users to view all options on a single scrollable page. The update includes the ability to disable the recommendations feature and limits the pinned list to two rows, which can be expanded. This redesign was first revealed by a user on social media and is currently available only to participants in the Dev and Beta channels of the Windows Insider program.

Winsage

April 3, 2025

Windows 11 is getting a big Start menu overhaul with better layout customization and more — here’s a first look

Microsoft is developing an update for the Start menu in Windows 11 that will integrate the pinned and recommended sections with the apps list into a single interface. The new design will allow users to pin more applications and automatically display all pinned apps. This update was discovered in a recent Windows 11 preview build, and while Microsoft has not officially announced it, it may coincide with the company's 50th anniversary and the Microsoft Build conference in May. Current criticisms of the Start menu include its lack of customization options and the separation of the apps list, which requires an additional click to access. The update aims to address these issues by merging the apps list with the pinned section, similar to the design in Windows 10.

Winsage

April 2, 2025

Your PC’s Windows install needs spring cleaning too. Here’s how to do it

- Regular maintenance of a PC is essential, especially during seasonal changes. - Uninstall unnecessary programs by accessing the Windows 11 Start menu, reviewing installed applications, and selecting Uninstall. - Specialized uninstall tools like Revo Uninstaller or Iobit Uninstaller can help remove leftover files and registry entries after standard uninstallation. - Unused Windows apps and features can be removed using Powershell commands or the freeware version of CCleaner. - Windows has a built-in cleaning service called "Storage Sense" that can be activated in Settings > System > Storage to manage unnecessary files automatically. - The Disk Cleanup tool can be accessed by typing cleanmgr in the search field to target temporary files and the recycle bin. - Software like Duplicate Photos Fixer Pro can help find and delete duplicate photos in large collections. - To reset Windows 11, navigate to Settings > System > Recovery > Reset PC, with an option to keep existing files or perform a complete reinstall.

Winsage

March 29, 2025

How to restore a more classic Start menu to Windows 11

The Open-Shell-Menu utility allows users to restore the classic Start menu in Windows 11, reminiscent of Windows 7. It is lightweight and free to use, but may trigger browser warnings during installation. To install, users can run the command winget install --id Open-Shell.Open-Shell-Menu in an elevated Command Prompt. After installation, users can configure the Start menu by accessing Open-Shell Menu Settings, where they can choose from different styles, including Classic, Classic with two columns, and Windows 7 style. Users can also customize the Start button and select a skin, with the Windows Aero option recommended for a cohesive desktop experience. The utility includes features for modifying the Start menu items and reintroduces the classic bar for File Explorer. Users can disable the Classic Explorer Bar if desired.

Winsage

March 10, 2025

Microsoft tests Windows 11 Start menu’s smart snap suggestions, PC specs guide FAQ in Settings

Microsoft is testing new features for Windows 11, including smart snap suggestions in the Start menu and an FAQ section in the Settings menu. The Start menu will soon include recommendations for frequently snapped applications, aimed at improving multitasking. These 'snap group' recommendations are expected to be part of Windows 11 24H2, with the potential for users to pin suggested configurations to the taskbar. Additionally, the Settings menu will introduce "Cards" in the System > About section, allowing users to view essential PC specifications like storage, GPU, RAM, and processor details. An FAQ section will accompany this feature, addressing common questions about PC hardware, particularly for beginners.

Winsage

March 10, 2025

5 Start menu alternatives and Windows tweaks that will speed up your workflow

The Start menu in Windows 11 has undergone changes that some users find less familiar compared to previous versions. Alternatives to enhance the Start menu experience include: - StartAllBack: A paid utility that restores the classic Windows 7 Start menu while offering customization options like themes, layout, and taskbar modifications. It has a 100-day free trial. - Open-Shell: A free, open-source tool that allows users to revert to classic Start menus from Windows 7 and earlier, with extensive customization and improved search functionality. It receives regular updates but may have slight performance lags. - Start11: A premium alternative by Stardock that provides a modern Start menu with styles reminiscent of Windows 7 and Windows 10, allowing for icon modification and app pinning. It offers a 30-day free trial. - Windhawk: A free modular tool for customizing the Start menu and other Windows interface elements, allowing users to install specific mods for tailored modifications. - Windows built-in settings: Users can enhance the Start menu by changing the layout, adding folder shortcuts next to the power button, and pinning favorite apps for quick access.

Winsage

March 1, 2025

7 reasons you simply HAVE to use PowerToys Run on your Windows 11 PC

PowerToys Run is a versatile launcher for Windows 11 that enhances user interaction with the operating system. It allows users to perform calculations directly by typing = followed by numbers or equations, execute terminal commands by entering commands like > wsl.exe -d Fedora, and search Windows Settings more efficiently by typing $ followed by a search term. Users can also quickly locate files by using ? followed by the search term, launch web addresses by typing the URL or using //, and navigate the Windows Registry by entering : followed by the desired term. PowerToys Run improves functionality and user experience compared to the traditional Start Menu.

Winsage

February 27, 2025

Start11 vs OpenShell: Do you really need to pay to customize the Start menu?

The Windows 11 Start menu has received criticism for being rigid and unhelpful, prompting the development of alternatives like Start11 from Stardock and OpenShell. Start11 is a paid option that offers extensive customization with seven distinct Start menu styles, robust organizational features, and the ability to display File Explorer folders directly within the Start menu. It also allows for significant taskbar customization, including color, texture, and positioning options. In contrast, OpenShell focuses on restoring traditional Start menu designs, offering three major style options (Windows 95, XP, or 7) and around a dozen skins. While OpenShell provides granular control over settings, its design options may feel outdated compared to Start11. Start11 is recommended for users seeking a dynamic experience, while OpenShell serves those who prefer a nostalgic interface.

Winsage

February 25, 2025

Microsoft tests ad-supported Office apps for Windows users

Microsoft has introduced ad-supported versions of its Office desktop applications, allowing Windows users to edit documents without a subscription. These applications will display advertisements in a vertical panel on the right side of the window and include prompts encouraging users to subscribe to Microsoft 365 to remove ads. Users must download and install Microsoft 365 to access these applications, and they can choose to skip the sign-in process for free access. However, a subscription is required to save documents edited with these applications directly to local drives. The ad-supported versions of Word, Excel, and PowerPoint have limited functionality compared to the full versions. Reports suggest that the availability of these applications may be part of a regional test, as some outlets could not replicate the findings. Additionally, Microsoft has a history of integrating ads into its products, including in the Windows 11 Start menu and Windows File Explorer.

Winsage

February 24, 2025

Microsoft launches ad-supported Office apps for Windows users

Microsoft has introduced ad-supported versions of its Office desktop applications for Windows users, including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. These applications display advertisements in a vertical panel on the right side of the window while users work. Users are encouraged to subscribe to Microsoft 365 to remove ads, with saving edited documents limited to OneDrive unless a paid subscription is chosen. The ad-supported versions come with basic functionality and restrictions compared to the full versions. Microsoft has previously integrated advertisements into its products, including the Windows 11 Start menu and Windows File Explorer.